SFGN 02/18/21 V12iss7 by South Florida Gay News

LOCAL NAME GLOBAL COVERAGE FEBRUARY 18, 2021 VOL. 12 // ISSUE 7

BLUE BAILEY,

ATTORNEY AT LAW FROM ADULT FILM STAR TO LEGAL ADVOCATE PAGE 18

Consignment Shop Scam PAGE 8 SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS

AIDS Memorial Exhibition PAGE 10 @SFGN

SFGN.COM

RuPaul’s Drag Race PAGE 31

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NEWS HIGHLIGHT

SouthFloridaGayNews.com

TWO BLACK TRANS WOMEN GUNNED DOWN IN JANUARY Kim Swan

ominique Jackson and Bianca Bankz, two transgender women, were recently found dead a week apart. So far, according to the Human Rights Campaign, five trans people have been killed in 2021. Bankz dreamed of being a contestant on “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Bankz, also known as “Muffin,” was 31 and a former foster child that had recently begun transitioning, according to LGBTQ Nation. The Trans Housing Coalition, which supported her in moving into her own apartment, is now paying for her funeral. “We met Muffin when we were unable to take on any new clients. We were able to at least provide housing for her over the past few months,” said THC, according to Planet Transgender. According to her roommate Africa, Muffin was a good IN 2020 HRC friend, a girl who “if you forgot TRACKED 44 the butter [at the store] she TRANSGENDER Bianca Bankz (left) and Dominique Jackson. Photos courtesy of the HRC. already had it.” OR GENDER NONBankz had just moved into a new home near the incidents against those To add insult to injury, WAPT used her CONFORMING Bankhead area of northwest communities. Most of them deadname and misgendered her in their PEOPLE WHO Atlanta, Georgia when were Black and Latinx reporting. WERE KILLED — A multiple gunshots were heard women. She was also active in the Mississippi RECORD NUMBER on Sunday, Jan. 17. When the Dominique Jackson’s chapter of the Human Rights Campaign, police arrived, they found death devastated the LGBT according to LGBTQ Nation. The national OF VIOLENT Bankz and another man dead. community as well. According organization released a statement in her FATAL INCIDENTS Police and other sources to LGBTQ Nation, she was memory. AGAINST THOSE have indicated to Planet reported missing for two days “Dominique was an important and valued Transgender that this was a and posts from friends and member of her community, where she COMMUNITIES. murder-suicide, with “friends family suggest that she was will be greatly missed,” said Tori Cooper, say[ing] … her life was taken by with an unknown man prior the director of Engagement for the HRC’s a man in her home, who ultimately took his to her murder. Transgender Justice Initiative. own life.” Jackson, 30, was shot while driving and “In just one month, we have already In 2020 HRC tracked 44 transgender or crashed into a utility pole on Jan. 25 in recorded multiple deaths of transgender and gender non-conforming people who were Mississippi, and was pronounced dead at the gender non-conforming people in the U.S.,” killed — a record number of violent fatal scene, according to WAPT. she added in the statement.

SEE OUR NEWS IN VIDEO! Online now! 2

• 2 .18 . 2021

COVER: Stephan Ferris, also known as Blue Bailey. Photo credit: Stephan Ferris.

Associated Press

@SFGN

February 18, 2021 • Volume 12 • Issue 7

2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943

Publisher • Norm Kent Norm.Kent@sfgn.com

Associate Publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com

Editorial

Art Director • Brendon Lies Artwork@sfgn.com Webmaster • Kimberly Swan Webmaster@sfgn.com Social Media Director • Christiana Lilly Arts/Entertainment Editor • J.W. Arnold JW@prdconline.com Food/Travel Editor • Rick Karlin Gazette News Editor • John McDonald HIV Editor • Sean McShee Senior Photographer • J.R. Davis JRDavis12000@hotmail.com

Senior Feature Columnists

Brian McNaught • Jesse Monteagudo

Correspondents

Dori Zinn • Donald Cavanaugh Christiana Lilly • John McDonald Denise Royal • David-Elijah Nahmod

Contributing Columnists

Pier Angelo • Terri Schlichenmeyer Dana Rudolph • Ric Reily

Associate Photographers Carina Mask • Steven Shires

Sales & Marketing For ad placement in SFGN, contact 954-530-4970 Sales Manager • Justin Wyse Justin@sfgn.com Senior Advertising Associate • Edwin Neimann Edwin@sfgn.com Distribution Services • Noah Lebel Sales Consultant • Charles A. Reid National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping Printing by Stuart Web Inc.

SFGN Winner of & 5 Florida Press Club Awards And runner-up for

NLGJA Journalist of the Year SOUTH FLORIDA GAY NEWS.COM, INC. — — FOUNDED, DECEMBER, 2009 BY PIER GUIDUGLI AND NORM KENT South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at Norm@NormKent.com. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. Copyright © 2021 South Florida Gay News.com, Inc.

2 .18 . 20 21 •

NEWS INTERNATIONAL

BY AVRAHAM FORREST

THE WORLD AROUND

AFRICA

ASIA

TRANS WOMEN ARRESTED IN CAMEROON

LGBT PEOPLE PROTEST MYANMAR COUP

Two transgender women were arrested in Cameroon last week under charges of homosexuality, Erasing 76 Crimes reported. Cameroon celebrity Mildred Loic, also known as Shakiro, and her companion Moute Rolland, also known as Patricia, were arrested on Feb. 8. Loic is well-known online for internet posts promoting her transgender identity. Advocacy group All Out have established an online petition for their immediate release, according to the group’s website. The petition has over 750 signatures out of its goal of 1,000. “We call on the government of Cameroon to release them immediately and put in place all measures to guarantee their security and wellbeing,” according to the website.

• 2 .18 . 2021

Yaoundé, Cameroon. Photo credit: jbdodane, via Flickr.

The petition is to be filed with the Minister of Justice of Cameroon, Erasing 76 Crimes reported. Same-sex sexual relations are a crime under the nation’s penal code.

LGBT people protested against the coup in Myanmar after the nation’s military took power in early February, the Guardian reported. Drag queens and rainbow flags were present within the marches alongside other protesters. Myanmar’s military took power on Feb. 1 after demanding a rerun of votes from the nation’s general elections, the BBC reported. The military has declared a year-long state of emergency and put their Commanderin-Chief Min Aung Hlaing in power. Protesters face water cannons, rubber and live bullets and restrictions such as curfews and gathering limits. LGBT discrimination in Myanmar is common, the Guardian reported. The country still holds an anti-sodomy law.

Photo credit: @ForeverMyanmar, via Twitter.

EUROPE

NORTH AMERICA

UK TO ADD GENDER IDENTITY QUESTION IN CENSUS

PRIDE PROPOSAL REJECTED BY CANADIAN SCHOOL BOARD

A gender question will be added to the U.K.’s census in March. The 2021 survey will ask those over 16 “Is the gender you identify with the same as your sex registered at birth?” the BBC reported. Bangor’s non-binary Mayor-elect Owen Hurcum told the BBC the measure was a positive change, but the U.K. government could do more. Also needed are non-binary gender options on U.K. passports, better access to gender identity clinics and a rewording of the 2010 Equalities Act to clearly include and protect non-binary identities, Hurcum told the BBC. Respondents under 16 should be able to answer the question as well, Hurcum told the BBC. This decision is partly due to parents

EXPLORING LGBT NEWS EVENTS ACROSS THE GLOBE

Bangor Mayor-elect Owen Hurcum. Photo via Facebook.

and guardians possibly answering the question instead of those below 16, a spokesperson for the Office for National Statistics told the BBC. The ONS said accurate gender identity data from those over 16 is important. The data is needed in order to assess and address the disadvantages LGBT people may face in the U.K., the ONS told the BBC.

A Canadian school board rejected plans for an annual Pride celebration last week, the CBC reported. Students at Red Deer public schools would have marked Pride week each June. Instead, school officials backed plans for a “Diversity Week.” School board chair Nicole Buchanan said she wanted to see a proposal from the students themselves instead of the board, the CBC reported. Buchanan rejected the plans along with three others. The school has an inclusion policy where a student’s request for a Pride celebration would be automatically approved by the school principal without the need for a board vote. Many in the community are angry at the results of the vote, vice-chair

Photo via Red Deer Public Schools, Facebook.

of the Red Deer Queer Community Association Alex Pugatschew told the CBC. Pugatschew told the BBC Pride is important to empower LGBT people.

NEWS LOCAL

REMEMBERING MAGNO MORALES Christiana Lilly

he South Florida LGBT community is mourning the loss of Magno Morales, who died Feb. 9 at the age of 54. He leaves behind his partner of 17 years, Eduardo Pinto, and many family and friends. Morales was heavily involved in HIV/AIDS education in the Latino community, including Latinos in Accion, the Hispanic Unity of Florida, the Pride Center and High Impacto. At his death, Morales served as the outreach supervisor for High Impacto, an HIV/AIDS organization serving the Latino community in Fort Lauderdale. They posted the news of his death on their Facebook page and said they would share more information about a tribute to him in the future. On Pinto’s behalf, High Impacto shared a message from him: “His unconditional love for me, for 17 years, helped me find and accept the human being I am today. So long my love!” Jorge Gardela, the CEO of High Impacto, recounted how Morales would bring his mother to Florida from Nicaragua every year to visit. Gardela would have them over to his home for dinner, where they sang Nicaraguan songs — including his favorite, “Vivirás Monimbo” by Carlos Mejía Godoy. María Iglesias, the prevention coordinator at High Impacto, knew Morales for more than 15 years, dating back to working together at Hispanic Unity of Florida. When they were reunited at their new job, he always called her “doll.” And Iván Fernández, prevention specialist, shared how he will cherish a

High Impacto colleagues celebrate the birthday of Magno Morales, center. Courtesy of High Impacto.

Magno Morales. Courtesy of the Pride Center.

handmade Christmas card that Morales gave to him two months ago. Morales previously worked at the Pride Center in Wilton Manors and was an instrumental part of its CHOICES and LIFE programs. He was interviewed by SFGN in 2011 when SFGN wrote about the CHOICES program. Offered in both Spanish and English, Morales was the group coordinator and helped HIV-positive participants reduce stress and build coping skills. “Words feel hollow to express the profound grief and loss facing his family and friends,” the Pride Center said in a Facebook tribute. “He made us laugh with his fiery sassiness. He sewed more of our Wicked Manors and Stonewall Parade costumes than we can count.” Emilio Apontesierraparetti, programs manager at High Impacto, shared that they would work together on their Halloween costumes. “Magno is one of the members of my chosen family. He was like my brother with whom I could talk about my public and secret adventures as a gay Latino in the USA,” he said. “Magno was an honest, humble human being, defender of his ideologies, creative, of strong temperament when he had to show the strength of the Latin man that his culture demanded of him, but he was a loving man with a total capacity for dedication, not only with his family and friends, but also in defending the causes with which he identified: mental health problems among people with a positive HIV diagnosis.”

2 .18 . 20 21 •

NEWS MIAMI-DADE

CASE OF ACCUSED MIAMI GAY BASHERS MOVING FORWARD Jason Parsley

fter years of delays it appears the case of four men accused of attacking a gay couple in 2018 on Miami Beach is inching towards a resolution. A status hearing was held two weeks ago on Zoom where the prosecution said all of the depositions of the law enforcement officers had been taken. Now they’re ready to move on to the civilians. The next hearing will be held at the end of March. Justin Funck, the attorney representing the state, told the judge he hopes all of the depositions will be taken by that time “and we’ll have an answer, as to whether or not, we’re going to resolve this, or if we’re going to have to set it for trial as soon as we can go to trial.” This case is now almost three years old. One of the defendants — Pablo Reinaldo Romo-Figueroa — attended the status hearing but did not speak. In June Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle apologized to the LGBT community for the continued delays, blaming much of it on COVID-19. “Honestly, this is such a priority for us. I know it’s very frustrating because it has taken a long time,” she said during a state attorney candidate virtual town hall hosted by SAVE. “If those defense attorneys don’t set it down, and don’t move, and the judges don’t prod them to do it, it does languish a bit.” Rundle noted that originally the four defendants were represented by the same

THE FOUR DEFENDANTS — ADONIS DIAZ, JUAN CARLOS LOPEZ, LUIS ALONSO-PIOVET, AND ROMO-FIGUEROA — ALL IN THEIR EARLY 20S, HAVE PLEADED NOT GUILTY. 6

• 2 .18 . 2021

Luis Alonso-Piovet, Pablo Reinaldo Romo-Figueroa, Adonis Diaz and Juan C. Lopez. Photos via Miami-Dade corrections.

lawyer. Each defendant then sought their own legal counsel which drew out the case and further complicated it with more moving parts. The four defendants — Adonis Diaz, Juan Carlos Lopez, Luis Alonso-Piovet, and RomoFigueroa — all in their early 20s, have pleaded not guilty. Here’s a recap of what allegedly happened: the attack took place when Rene Chalarca and Dmitry Logunov were leaving a public bathroom in Lummus Park in Miami Beach on April 8, 2018. “We were walking and holding hands and needed to use the bathroom,” Logunov told SFGN in 2018. So the two of them stopped at a public restroom as they headed home for the evening. As Logunov walked out of the restroom he was allegedly called a “faggot” in Spanish, punched, and then beaten unconscious. His boyfriend at the time, Chalarca, quickly intervened, but three more men jumped in and began to attack them both. The attack was caught on camera and the four defendants have been charged with three counts of aggravated battery and a hate crime enhancement was added to the charges. A third person, Helmut Estrada, attempted to assist Chalarca and Logunov. He was also attacked during the altercation and injured. Criminal jury trials are still on pause in Florida because of the pandemic.

NEWS STATE

WEEKLY TRACKING OF COVID-19 IN SOUTH FLORIDA Sean McShee

CUMULATIVE KNOWN COVID-19 CASES IN Cumulative COVID-19 Cases in THREE SOUTHKnown FLORIDA COUNTIES:

CUMULATIVE KNOWN COVID-19 DEATHS IN THREE SOUTH COUNTIES: Cumulative Known COVID-19 inin Cumulative KnownFLORIDA COVID-19Cases Deaths

Three South Florida Counties:

FEBRUARY 1010 THROUGH February through FEBRUARY February 1616

Three Florida ThreeSouth South FloridaCounties: Counties: FEBRUARY 10 THROUGH FEBRUARY 16

February February10 10through throughFebruary February16 16

Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 cases from 2/10 to 2/16 Palm Beach 2.5%, Broward 2.6%, and Miami Dade 2.0%

181,427

112,367

2/10

182,419

183,224

113,457

112,964

2/11

Palm Beach

2/12

184,110

184,773

114,467

114,083

2/13

2/14

Broward

395,828

394,492

393,971

392,842

391,162

389,519

387,940

Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 fromto2/10 Percent Increase in cumulative COVID-19 casesdeaths from 2/10 2/16to 2/16 Beach Broward and Miami PalmPalm Beach 2.5%,2.7%, Broward 2.6%,3.3%, and Miami DadeDade 2.0% 2.9%

185,310

186,063

114,800

2/15

115,145

112,367

2/16

Miami-Dade Source Fl DOH Dashboard

Source: Florida DOH Dashboard.

2,294 2,202

181,427

2/102/10

182,419 2,302

2,218

183,224

2,315 2,229

2/112/11

Palm Beach

2/122/12

184,773 2,322

2,322 2,239

114,083

113,457

112,964

184,110

2,256

2/132/13

Palm Beach Broward Broward

2,349 185,310 2,266 114,800

114,467

2/142/14

5,207 395,828

5,185 394,492

5,170 393,971

5,141 392,842

5,121 391,162

389,519 5,081

387,940 5,062

2/15 2/15

186,063 2,355 2,275 115,145

2/16 2/16

Miami Dade Miami-Dade Source Fl DOH Dashboard Source Fl DOH Dashboard

Source: Florida DOH Dashboard.

2 .18 . 20 21 •

AUCTIONED OFF NEWS LOCAL

Ripped-off customers watch in dismay as their property is sold to the highest bidder Jason Parsley

ast week a storage facility in Oakland Park auctioned off several abandoned storage units — one of which belonged to a local consignment store owner who has been accused of ripping off his customers and stealing their goods.

Now their property is gone for good — the unit sold for $400. Six months ago SFGN published an exposé detailing a laundry list of complaints against Johnny “JT” Lee Thompson and his consignment shop the Peculiar Pelican. His consignors accused him of not paying them for items he’s sold, writing bad checks, and of shoddy record-keeping. Since the article was published more victims have contacted SFGN to share their stories. Several weeks ago SFGN wrote a second article with details of the upcoming auction where his unit would be sold off to the highest bidder. Some of his alleged victims believed their property was inside the storage unit and they felt this would be their last chance to ever see their merchandise again. Bill Gordon attended the auction hoping

to perhaps either stop it, or get some of his property back. Neither happened. He said Thompson owes him at least $1,700. Gordon said the auction, which took place at Lighthouse Storage in Oakland Park, 1121 E Commercial Blvd., happened so quickly he didn’t even see who bought the unit. The potential bidders were not allowed to enter the unit — only peer in from the outside. And since much of the property was boxed up they had no idea whether their items were in there. The auctioneer told another alleged victim, Ginger Berluti, that a search warrant would be needed to stop the auction. “None of us got our stuff,” she said. “It was very disheartening.” Several alleged victims have filed police

Courtesy photo.

• 2 .18 . 2021

Courtesy photo.

reports over the past year only to be told it According to Gordon, Thompson rented was a civil matter. two units at Lighthouse — one of which was “I left a picture of something of my mom’s already auctioned off in December. with the auctioneer to give to the person “This is a bad situation for everyone who bought the unit and said involved, not only did he if they found it I would buy it take advantage of the people back,” Berluti said. “I LEFT A PICTURE in your story, but also us, It’s unlikely she’ll ever be not paying his rent for OF SOMETHING OF by contacted. space he has been renting all Another alleged victim, this time,” James Wofford, MY MOM’S WITH Pierre LaBelle, who contacted a district manager who THE AUCTIONEER SFGN after reading about the oversees Lighthouse, wrote TO GIVE TO THE auction found one of his items to SFGN in an email before at the Swap Shop on Sunrise the auction took place. PERSON WHO Because Thompson Blvd. two days after the unit BOUGHT THE UNIT abandoned the storage was sold. units, Lighthouse held a The seller wanted $50 for a AND SAID IF THEY public auction to sell off the lamp he had consigned with FOUND IT I WOULD contents. Thompson. He declined to buy When SFGN interviewed it back. BUY IT BACK.” Thompson last year he Thompson took LaBelle’s defended himself blaming property with promises of - Ginger Berluti much of his woes on the money that never materialized. ALLEGED VICTIM pandemic. But, as SFGN “I feel very vulnerable. This detailed in its original story, was pretty low,” the 70-yearold said. “I was counting on extra income — many of the complaints started long before the pandemic began. instead I got duped.

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n the U.S., mass incarceration is an LGBT The discussion is moderated by Florida issue. The U.S. incarcerates people at State Senator Shevrin Jones. The panelists a higher rate than nearly every other are Marq Mitchell, CEO and founder of nation in the world — poor LGBT people Chainless Change and Scott Greenberg, and LGBT people of color are executive director and disproportionately affected. founder of LGBTQ Freedom Fund. According to Lambda Legal, ACCORDING TO “We post bond for LGBT nearly one in six transgender LAMBDA LEGAL, folks who are in pretrial and Americans — and one in two NEARLY ONE IN immigration detention and black trans people has spent time behind bars. Once locked SIX TRANSGENDER pretrial,” Greenberg said. “The idea of it is that you post bond up, they face the constant AMERICANS— and you’re able to secure these threat of sexual assault and people safety from all the discrimination. AND ONE IN dangers of detention. LGBT Next week, Our Fund TWO BLACK individuals are often targeted, Foundation will host Critical TRANS PEOPLE especially trans individuals Mass, Mass Incarceration in are often targeted and sexually the LGBTQ Community. It’s an HAS SPENT TIME assaulted or sexually abused important panel discussion BEHIND BARS. when they’re in detention. addressing the critical needs And then also by getting them of LGBT people who find themselves trapped in the criminal justice out of detention, you put them in a place to better fight their immigration case or the system. Mark your calendars: the virtual discussion charge that they’re facing in the pretrial system.” is Thursday, Feb. 25 from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. To register for the informative talk, email ocaballero@our-fund.org or follow this Zoom link: www.bit.ly/3atgfB3 — the passcode is 890550. 2 .18 . 20 21 •

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• 2 .18.2021

NEWS NATIONAL

NATIONAL AIDS MEMORIAL TO HONOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH USING EXHIBITION Kim Swan

o celebrate Black History Month, the National AIDS Memorial will host an exhibition to honor the Black lives that were lost to AIDS. The exhibition will feature the AIDS Memorial Quilt that will have 56 blocks that show “stories of resilience, healing, hope and remembrance represented in each panel,” according to a press release by the National AIDS Memorial. “Our hope is that it helps raise greater awareness about the ongoing struggle with HIV and the impact systemic barriers have to positive health outcomes, particularly among the Black community,” said John Cunningham, executive director of the National AIDS Memorial, in the press release. The exhibition is free to the public and can be viewed at AIDSmemorial.org through March 31. All 48,000 panels of the Quilt are featured and visitors can search for the names of loved ones who have a panel made in their memory. Black Americans and communities of color have been disproportionately impacted by AIDS in the 40 years since the first cases were reported, according to the National AIDS Memorial. HIV was the leading cause of death for Black men between the ages of 25-44 in 1993, and by 2004, HIV became the leading cause of death for Black women as well. In 2018, Black Americans made up 42% of the nearly 38,000 new HIV diagnoses in the U.S., with half of those living in southern states, the National AIDS Memorial also writes. “Today, Black Americans face the highest impact of HIV/AIDS compared to all other races and ethnicities,” said Raniyah Copeland, the president and CEO of Black AIDS Institute. “This highlights the need to center Black and LGBTQ people in the fight to end the epidemic.” “By sharing these powerful stories from the Quilt, we can continue to advocate for Black people living with HIV, defy stigma, and create awareness around prevention and treatment options available today that can end HIV in Black communities over the next decade,” Copeland adds in the press release. The idea of the Quilt is to honor loved ones who died from AIDS to preserve their stories, memories, and hopes in each panel, according to Gert McMullin, the National AIDS Memorial Quilt conservator. Some of the stories include Black children as well. One panel honors 2-year-old Alexzandria that shows a photo of her holding a teddy

The AIDS Memorial Quilt. Photo via Facebook.

bear, Big Bird and a poem written by her mother Charlene, who says she “pours her grief into the poems and stories she has been writing since Alexzandria died,” National AIDS Memorial writes. A boy named “Dougie,” who died at the age of 8, is remembered by his mother who created the panel that includes a painting of him from a photo taken when he met musical artist Ice-T. Black celebrities who lost their lives to AIDS brought awareness to the pandemic by using their work and connection to people, National AIDS Memorial writes. One panel was made for Sean Sasser, an AIDS activist who appeared on MTV’s “The Real World: San Francisco,” and shares his relationship with Pedro Zamora, which helped open hearts and minds to LGBT issues and those living with HIV/AIDS. Other celebrities include “Sylvester” James, Eazy-E, Max Robinson, Arthur Ashe and Willi Smith, with records, CDs and photographs sewn onto the panels. Black military men are also featured. They are shown wearing their uniforms to honor their service, according to the National AIDS Memorial. George Gramby, who helped people overcome substance abuse and formed a program called “Beginnings” that is still active today, is one of them. For more than 25 years, Morristown, New Jersey has held an annual day in his memory. Partners for the Black History Month AIDS Memorial Quilt Virtual Exhibition include the Black AIDS Institute, Gilead Sciences, Vivent Health, and national leaders in the fight against AIDS.

NEWS MIAMI-DADE

MIAMI-DADE POLICE ASK FOR HELP IN SOLVING MURDER OF BLACK TRANS WOMAN Christiana Lilly

iami-Dade Police have put out a plea for the public’s help in identifying the murderer of Alexus “Kimmy” Braxton, a Black trans woman who was found dead in her bedroom the night of Feb. 4. In a video shared through social media, Miami-Dade Police Det. Juan Segovia said that Braxton, 45, was found dead in her apartment at Carmel at the California Club condominiums. He described the scene as a “violent and vicious attack.” “The family has been left with no closure,” he said. “They’re suffering tremendously because of the death and the manner in which our victim passed away, was murdered.” Police shared surveillance footage of a person of interest, wearing a black zip-up track sweater over a white shirt and black pants. They believe this person may have been Alexus “Kimmy” Braxton. involved or has information about the murder. Photo via Kimmy Icon Braxton, Facebook. Segovia also announced an award of up to Neki, Braxton’s sister, told NBC6, “Whoever $5,000 for tips that lead to an arrest. “We always believe that somebody may did this, you need to come forward. You hurting know something that they may not even realize our family. You hurting everyone around us, will help us with this case,” he said. “We’re and we want to know, why, why, why would hoping that somebody out in the community you do it? What would the reason be for you to do such a crime and do such an act on a may be able to identify this individual.” beautiful person?” In the video and captions Braxton is believed to be the released by Miami-Dade Police, “... LAW sixth transgender person killed Braxton is referred to with she/ ENFORCEMENT, STATE in the United States this year, her pronouns. However, she is OFFICIALS, AND according to the Human Rights called by her deadname and a LOCAL/NATIONAL Campaign. This followed the flier released by police labels her deadliest year on record for trans as a Black male. POLITICIANS HAVE NO people — in 2020, at least 44 “In 1999, I witnessed my best SENSE OF URGENCY trans people were killed, a huge friend get murdered in the streets TO ADDRESS THIS increase from the 25 killed in of Miami,” Tatiana Williams, GROWING EPIDEMIC. 2019. the co-founder and executive MY QUESTION: ‘WHAT In Florida, Tony McDade, director of TransInclusive, WILL IT TAKE?” a Black trans man, was shot told SFGN in an email. “Sadly, and killed by a police officer in since her murder, I’ve lost many - Tatiana Williams Tallahassee in May 2020. Bree more friends due to senseless CO-FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF Black, a Black trans woman, violence. Here we are in 2021, TRANSINCLUSIVE was shot and killed near her it’s my daughter Alexus ‘Kimmy’ Pompano Beach home over the Braxton. I have no words to express how I feel. However, there is one thing Fourth of July weekend. And Yunieski Carey that remains the same: law enforcement, state Herrera, a Hispanic trans beauty queen in officials, and local/national politicians have Miami, was stabbed to death by her husband no sense of urgency to address this growing in November in the middle of Transgender Awareness Week. epidemic. My question: ‘What will it take?’”

The public can share any information anonymously with Miami-Dade Police Det. Juan Segovia at 305-471-2400 or Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (8477).

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LGBTQIA BITES

BY KENDALL LITTLE

IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT THE G Transgender

POPULAR CHILDREN’S SHOW SAYS ‘P IS FOR PRIDE!’ “Blues Clues and You!” took the opportunity to educate young viewers on LGBT pride during an alphabet song in a recent video. When the letter P appeared on screen, it was rainbow-filled, Pride flags surrounded the screen, including pansexual, intersex, transgender, lesbian, bisexual, and more. “The first thing that came to my mind was P is for pride when I got the script. I am so excited that all of ya’ll are as happy as I am!” said animator Sammi WS Chan on Twitter. Fans of the original “Blues Clues” showed their gratitude under Chan’s tweet. “I BAWLED when I saw ‘P is for Pride’! I grew up with the original Blues Clues, and I got bullied for being gay before I had ANY romantic interest either way! I’m so happy

• 2 .18.2021

“Blues Clues and You!” Credit: Nickelodeon.

kids today can see that there’s nothing wrong with being gay, and being yourself!!! Thank you so much!!” a Twitter user said.

... HERE’S WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING IN THE LGBTQIA COMMUNITY

Bisexual

BISEXUAL POP STAR RELEASES LIMITED EDITION OREOS

Bisexual icon Lady Gaga has once again brought in the applause. Inspired by her album “Chromatica,” Oreo has released a limited edition collection of pink Oreos with green filling. While the cookie sandwiches are receiving praise for the fun colors, fans also created a running joke that eating the Oreos will turn you gay. A Twitter user said, “today my son ate just one of the limited edition oreos and he dropped to the floor.. soon after he raised his hand and it cramped and locked up into this position! the doctors have never seen nothing like this ... he also started saying yass and wig.” All jokes aside, Gaga fans are loving the collaboration. “Did I get Lady Gaga Oreos shipped

Lady Gaga’s Oreos. Credit: Oreo.

from the US. Of course I did. I peaked in gay today!” another Twitter user said.

LGBTQIA BITES

Lesbian

YOUNG POP SENSATION SHARES TOUCHING POST FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

Lesbian pop star JoJo Siwa recently came out on social media. On Valentine’s Day, she took to Instagram again to share a heartfelt message to her girlfriend. “It’s my first valentines dayyyy!!” she said. “No one in the world makes me as happy as this girl does. I’m so thankful to have fallen in love with the most perfect person ever who makes me smile 24/7. I love you more than you’ll ever know.” The caption can be read underneath a photo of Siwa’s girlfriend Kylie giving Siwa a piggyback ride. Kylie also posted a sweet message to Siwa on her personal Instagram page for their one-month anniversary. The caption said, “fall in love with your best friend, guys. it’s THE BEST feeling in the entire world. here’s to one month with my favorite human :) i love you sharky.”

and

JoJo Siwa with her girlfriend Kylie. Photo via Instagram.

2 .18 . 20 21 •

NEWS LOCAL

J.R.’s SNAPSHOTS

OF THE

From your life... into our pages! SFGN takes a special look at a community that has stood together through countless trials and victories in the past year alone.

J Marks Owners and husbands Steve Wilson and Ariel Ayala.

PNC Banker Johnnie Mejia with partner Omar Morales of Sunserve.

• 2 .18.2021

WEEK Photos by J.R. Davis

Happy one-year wedding anniversary Michael Connell, part owner of The Pub, and husband James Walker.

Publisher of Fun Travel Guides and FunTravelGuides.com Alan Beck with husband Nick Starr Of Broward College.

NEWS INTERNATIONAL

PROUD BOYS LABELED TERRORIST GROUP IN CANADA Kim Swan

anada has deemed the Proud Boys a terrorist group, saying its members “played a pivotal role” in the assault on the U.S. Capitol Jan. 6. The declaration comes after one of the members, Ethan Nordean, was arrested Feb. 3 on charges of obstructing an official proceeding, entering a restricted building, and violent entry and disorderly conduct on the Capitol grounds, King 5 reported. King 5 also reported that prior to the breach, the Department of Justice says Nordean posted a video on social media, which he captioned, “Let them remember the day they decided to make war with us.” The DOJ says the 30-year-old had been near the front of the crowd of rioters as they confronted Capitol Police, King 5 reported. Canada authorities say leaders of Proud Boys “planned their participation by setting out objectives, issuing instructions, and directing members during the insurrection,” POLITICO reported. Proud Boys joins other groups on Canada’s terrorist list, with the Public Safety Minister Bill Blair labelling them a “neofascist organization that engages in political violence,” according to POLITICO. “No matter the ideological motivation of violent extremist groups, they are all hateful, intolerant and, as we have seen, they can be dangerous,” Blair said, according to POLITICO. “The threat of ideologically motivated extremism has been identified as the most significant threat to domestic security in Canada.”

“NO MATTER THE IDEOLOGICAL MOTIVATION OF VIOLENT EXTREMIST GROUPS, THEY ARE ALL HATEFUL, INTOLERANT AND, AS WE HAVE SEEN, THEY CAN BE DANGEROUS.” - Bill Blair

PUBLIC SAFETY MINISTER

A member of the Proud Boys. Photo credit: Becker1999, via Flickr.

Blair insisted the decision was a legal call, not political, even though it’s been a month after the insurrection on the Capitol. Blair said that since 2018, domestic intelligence and national security agencies have been monitoring the organization, the same one that has Canadian roots for men that “promulgates white supremacy,” according to POLITICO. “In the aftermath of the U.S. presidential election, we’ve seen … an escalation towards violence for a number of different groups, including the Proud Boys,” Blair said according to POLITICO. Blair isn’t the only one that has a strong feeling about the group. The government said Proud Boys members “espouse misogynistic, Islamophobic, anti-Semitic, anti-immigrant, and/or white supremacist ideologies and associate with white supremacist groups,” according to POLITICO. The leader of Proud Boys, Henry “Enrique” Tarrio, was arrested Jan. 4 in Washington, D.C. for allegedly burning a Black Lives Matter banner taken from a Black church during protests in the city after a “Stop the Steal” rally.

2 .18 . 20 21 •

NEWS INTERNATIONAL

BY ELLIOT RODRIGUEZ

GAY VINE THE

KEEP UP WITH THE CELEBRITIES IN OUR COMMUNITY

FILM

SPORTS

YAS QUEEN!

I DO!

GAY RETIRED FIGURE SKATER SHARES ENGAGEMENT ON INSTAGRAM

DOLLY PARTON HINTS REUNION OF ‘9 TO 5’ Fans of the beloved comedy “9 to 5” will finally be able to see their favorite cast members side by side once again. Gay icon Dolly Parton announced that the film’s lead cast will be reunited once more. Parton told Queerty that once it is safe enough to resume filming, she’ll make an appearance. “We worked so well together on ‘9 to 5,’ it’s a crazy wonderful show. We’ve been trying to write me in somehow. So when it’s safe for us to actually do a production when they’re back, I’ll probably get around to doing that,” Parton said. According to Queerty, “9 to 5” came to be known as one of the most popular comedies ever. Released in 1980, the comedy was so

Jane Fonda, Dolly Parton and Lily Tomlin in 1980’s “9 to 5.” Photo credit: 20th Century Fox.

popular that it sparked a sitcom and a Broadway musical performance to be made. Queerty also mentioned that a sequel was being developed in 2018, but was then tossed out and disbanded the following year.

Retired 31-year-old professional figure skater Adam Rippon revealed on a recent Instagram post, that he and his partner Jussi-Pekka Kajaala have gotten engaged. Rippon is the first openly gay athlete to receive a bronze metal, which he received back in 2018. Amidst all the trials and tribulations that have been going on in 2020 and 2021, it seems like some good fortune has shone onto this couple. Rippon wrote in his Instagram post, “JP and I didn’t get to see each other for almost all of 2020 because of the pandemic … When there was finally a chance for me to go and see him in Finland, I jumped at it. I was there for a little over two months … I would attempt to try and ‘help’ him shovel snow so he could keep working on

Adam Rippon and Jussi-Pekka Kajaala. Photo via Instagram.

the cottage he’s building. So, in between all that and binging the entire 4 seasons of The Crown, we bought ourselves some rings and said that magic word...”Duh!” We got ~*engaged*~.” It seems that not even a pandemic can keep these two love birds away. Now all that’s left is to open the bubbly and make it official.

CELEBRITY

PROUD!

‘BRIDGERTON’ STAR FEELS ‘PRIVILEGED’ TO BE OUT “Bridgerton” star Golda Rosheuvel is waving that pride flag for all to see. Roshveual says that she is proud to identify as a Black lesbian. “There’s not a lot of us around who are gay, female, Black and I’m very privileged and blessed to be one of them … I’m not saying that I speak for a community, I’m a small voice in that community, but I think each of us who has a small voice creates something big and something wonderful for the next generation to see themselves and be proud of,” Rosheuvel told Pagesix. The 51-year-old actress has been in the film industry for over 20 years, and has solidified her presence in predominantly theatre, according to Them.us. The veteran actress gives her praise to the

• 2 .18.2021

diversity of the cast. She told Pagesix, “Stories had been told by the privileged … I think it’s time that the door has opened and the time is now that the door is being opened by people of color, Black and Brown people, Shonda Rhimes, Tyler Perry, Oprah Winfrey, Ryan Coogler.” Even though the show has a wide diversity of cast members, it has still gotten some heat for queerbaiting. Them.us said, “The trailer teased a gay love scene, but moment in question ended up being the only gay sex scene in the entire show.” Digitalspy.com even went so far to say that the show has a “a gay sex problem.” While the series is on its way to season two, fans hope to see more representation in the upcoming episodes.

“Bridgerton” star Golda Rosheuvel. Photo credit: Facebook.

PA L M B E A C H

news

ERIC HARAZI ‘CAN’ HELP New Organization Hopes to Reach Out to People With Addiction Problems

FEATURE PETS

JUST NEED A CHANCE

John Hayden ADDICTION. ABUSE. A FEELING OF HELPLESSNESS. Eric Harazi knows these conditions all too well. He also knows there are many people like him, suffering in silence, too scared to ask for help. Now after years of treatment, he’s reaching out to them with a simple but powerful message: “You are cared for.” Harazi is the founder of Coherently Aware Now (CAN), an organization dedicated to getting people into the treatment programs best designed to deal with their specific issues. It’s been a long and rough road to this point. Ten years ago, when he was 30, Harazi was drugged and assaulted. This started a pattern of abuse that lasted for many years. He went into several treatment centers, working to break the cycle. Harazi calls his story one of “Trauma to Triumph” and wants to help others on their journey. “This all came about while I was in a residential outpatient program in Nashville,” he said. “This was probably my fifth program by then. I felt there was no one to speak up for clients and I was also having trouble with funding for myself.” It was when he saw similar stories that he came up with the CAN concept. “I saw a site where incoherent women were being sexually assaulted. The cops couldn’t do anything and I was so frustrated. I kept saying the word ‘incoherent’ and I thought ‘well I’m coherent and very aware now,’ and that’s how the name happened.” Having been through several treatment centers and programs, Harazi knows there is no one-size-fits-all. The goal of CAN is to match a person with a program that is best suited to deal with their problems, and hopefully avoid a long journey like Harazi’s.

IN ADDITION TO HELPING PEOPLE WITH LONG-TERM ADDICTION AND ABUSE PROBLEMS, CAN ALSO KNOWS THIS PAST YEAR HAS BEEN MENTALLY CRUSHING FOR FIRST RESPONDERS.

HUNTER Eric Harazi. Courtesy photo.

“There are some places that are just not the right fit for your experiences and that is OK. The tricky part is knowing that and understanding that this is your recovery; speak up and know what you deserve. That’s what CAN is here for. We will walk with you side by side to make sure you feel safe, heard and that the therapy is up to par.” In addition to helping people with longterm addiction and abuse problems, CAN also knows this past year has been mentally crushing for first responders. They are reaching out to them as the COVID-19 crisis continues. “This is so in need right now. Frontline workers are seeing things every day that are traumatic and will leave a mark on them,” Harazi said. “What is the best way to show appreciation than to say ‘we care about your mental health.’” CAN is close to celebrating its first anniversary, and in its second year plans to continue fundraising (depending on insurance, it costs about $30,000 per client) and building a network with treatment centers to best match up patients. During its first year of fundraising, CAN aims to raise upwards of $800,000 to launch its program in 2021. The goal for the first year is to reach 25 individuals in need of treatment. And for anyone who reads this, Harazi has these words of encouragement: “Life is not about being 100% every moment, it’s about being in the moment at any percentage. There are resources and people who understand you.”

Visit TheSafeCircle.org to donate or for more information.

Two-year-old Hunter (ID 639609) is eager to find a new home. He had a family his entire life, but when they brought home a new dog, who chased Hunter and scared him, Hunter was given up. Hunter enjoys sitting in the window sill and watching what is going on outside. He likes toys and would love a scratching post. While he hasn’t lived with kids before, he would most likely be fine with older kids who can appreciate his sweet demeanor.

If you would like to meet a pet, please visit www.humanebroward.com. The banners rotate so click on the one that says COVID-19 update adoptions and essential services update and scroll down a little bit. There you will find an application for adoption and other pertinent information. Complete the application (even if you have adopted before) and submit it. Please be patient, as the shelter is getting lots of applications daily. Adoptions are being done by appointment only now. For more information call 954-989-3977 ext. 6 The vaccine clinic remains open Monday — Friday 9 AM — 4:30 PM no appointment necessary, credit cards only. FACE MASKS ARE REQUIRED WHEN COMING TO THE SHELTER.

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2 .18 . 20 21 •

FEATURE BLUE BAILEY

BLUE BAILEY,

ATTORNEY AT LAW From adult film star to legal advocate David-Elijah Nahmod

etired gay porn actor Blue Bailey has found a new calling. Now known as Stephan Ferris, he has opened his own law practice in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he lives.

After leaving the adult industry some on his relationship, his home, his work, and years ago, Ferris attended law school at the his recovery. University of California Hastings in San “I was able to start my own business, secure Francisco. He studied media, intellectual my own apartment to build a home for myself, property, and drug policy matters, graduating and develop a partnership with a man I’m in in 2017. Ferris passed the California bar love with,” he said. exam and was sworn into the The business he started is the California bar on December Law Office of Stephan F. Ferris. 4, 2018, at first working as an His practice is in the Castro associate for an automotive District, San Francisco’s LGBT based law firm. But then the neighborhood, and is part of pandemic hit, and Ferris was the Bay Area Legal Incubator laid off. Program, a community of “It ended up being a blessing solo attorneys dedicated to in disguise,” he said. providing affordable legal “I WAS ABLE TO It was not an easy time services and promoting social START MY OWN for Ferris. He had lost his justice. According to Ferris, job and was about to lose the program provides coaching BUSINESS, SECURE his relationship and his resources to accelerate MY OWN APARTMENT and apartment. He ended up the launch of solo practices TO BUILD A HOME moving home to Las Vegas for serving low- and middlea time to be around family and income communities. FOR MYSELF, to regroup. “I practice cannabis, AND DEVELOP A “I am an expert in distracting business and entertainment PARTNERSHIP WITH myself from myself, whether law,” Ferris said. “I counsel that manifests itself in sex, clients on establishing new A MAN I’M IN LOVE drugs, or the like,” Ferris said. businesses, creating and WITH.” “I appreciate that in a sense protecting branded content, the pandemic slowed down and maintaining compliance - Stephan Ferris life and afforded me time for medical and adult-use to work on myself. Twentycannabis. Some of the clients twenty could have completely broken me, I have been working with include queer tech but ultimately it resulted in my refocus and platforms, adult entertainment studios, and rebirth. “ cannabis retailers.” Ferris says that he used the time for selfIn the past, Ferris has kept his adult film life care and self-improvement, and for focusing in the background out of concern that it might

• 2 .18.2021

Stephan Ferris, also known as Blue Bailey. Photo credit: Stephan Ferris.

hamper his chances of professional success. “However, when I attended kink and leather events, I met people who married their passions and hobbies with their work, and they were incredibly happy,” he said. “I wanted to be like that. Sure, doing porn, being openly gay, kinky or HIV positive may be a turn off for some, but at the same time, it’s appealing for others. It provides visibility and representation that are lacking.” Ferris continued: “I think people from these communities are more open to hiring someone from their own identity who understands and experiences what they experience. They don’t have to explain or rationalize what they’re going through. I recently had a chat with a performer who was worried about the legal implications of cash domination, who didn’t feel comfortable

talking about this with a muggle attorney.” Ferris added that he is quite happy to be providing legal counsel to the adult entertainment industry. With his decade-plus experience in the business, he feels that he has a unique perspective when paired with his legal skills. “There are many things I wish I had known as a young performer, and I’m happy that I can use my experience and skills to help lift my community,” he said. He notes that there are always people who might judge him for his past, but he’s not too concerned about such things. “I’m sure I’m judged for doing porn, for struggling with addiction, or even the people I’ve dated,” he said. “But like RuPaul says, what people think of me is none of my business.”

To get in touch with Ferris regarding legal services, please visit: StephanFerrisLaw.com or email: Stephan@StephanFerrisLaw.com

THE

GAZETTE VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 4 FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Wilton Manors & Oakland Park FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/WMGAZETTE COMMUNITY

OAKLAND PARK

A New Vision for Oakland Park’s Downtown City solicits feedback from residents; 71% OK with wider sidewalks, less lanes By Christiana Lilly

The city of Oakland Park hosted a community meeting to get more feedback and share plans for OP3D, or the Oakland Park Design Development District. The Thursday evening meeting was hosted through Zoom and the city’s website, with interactive polling options for participants to share their opinions. During the presentation, the team proposed new standards for building heights, green space, walkability, density, and other zoning and coding laws for the city’s future. This included capping building heights at five stories in some parts of town, which would help with buffering neighboring residential areas. They emphasized that this would not impact any current buildings, but only future development. “The new downtown code as they’re being adopted, they’re basically prospective; they’re for future development,” said Pete Schwarz, the city’s assistant director of Community and Economic Development. “All existing properties within the downtown would

continue to exist and operate as they have been.” The city hired the Miami-based Zyscovich Architects in 2018 to study Oakland Park’s current downtown area, then known as the Downtown Mixed-Use District, and provide feedback on what could be done for expansion. For the last two years, they have also hosted community forums and conducted surveys with city boards, community groups, and other stakeholders for OP3D. “All the feedback we’ve received in the last two years, that’s going to be evaluated,” said Suria Yaffar, a partner at Zyscovich. Green space is a priority with the plan, and Grace Perdomo of Zyscovich noted that the city’s current code does not have any requirements for open space, other than for water flow. Zyscovich is proposing the city to require that any new buildings must have a percentage of the property be green space. During the presentation, participants were encouraged to answer a series of polling

During the presentation, the team proposed new standards for building heights, green space, walkability, density, and other zoning and coding laws for the city’s future.

During the community meeting, a presentation was given by (clockwise from left) Suria Yaffar, a partner at Zyscovich; Jennifer Frastai, assistant city manager; Grace Perdomo of Zyscovich; and Pete Schwarz, assistant director of Community and Economic Development.

questions through slido.com, such as what they felt would add more value to downtown (housing, retail or access to transit), what public enhancements should be used as an incentive, and if they were willing to give up a travel lane for wider sidewalks (71% said yes). The next step in planning for Oakland

www.WMGAZETTE.com

Park’s downtown is for further discussion at an upcoming Planning & Zoning meeting. “It is a lengthy process,” assistant city manager Jennifer Frastai said of the downtown planning. “We’re looking at least — if all of the stars align — 10 to 12 more months of this process.”

2 .18 . 20 21 •

COMMUNITY

WILTON MANORS

Ink Addiction in Wilton Manors Raises Funds for Mental Health By John Hayden

THE

GAZETTE February 18, 2021 • Volume 8 • Issue 4 2520 N. Dixie Highway • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 Phone: 954-530-4970 Fax: 954-530-7943

Publisher • Norm Kent norm.kent@sfgn.com Associate publisher / Executive Editor • Jason Parsley jason.parsley@sfgn.com Webmaster • Kimberly Swan webmaster@sfgn.com

Editorial

Art Director • Brendon Lies artwork@sfgn.com Oakland Park Editor • Christiana Lilly Wilton Manors Editor • John McDonald

Correspondents

Christiana Lilly• Sal Torre • James Oaksun

Staff Photographers

J.R. Davis • Carina Mask • Steven Shires

Sales & Marketing For ad placement in the Wilton Manors Gazette, contact 954-530-4970

Sales Manager • Justin Wyse justin.wyse@sfgn.com Advertising Sales Associate • Edwin Neimann edwin.neimann@sfgn.com Accounting Services by CG Bookkeeping South Florida Gay News is published weekly. The opinions expressed in columns, stories, and letters to the editor do not represent the opinions of SFGN, or the Publisher. You should not presume the sexual orientation of individuals based on their names or pictorial representations. Furthermore the word “gay” in SFGN should be interpreted to be inclusive of the entire LGBT community. All of the material/columns that appears in print and online, including articles used in conjunction with the AP, is protected under federal copyright and intellectual property laws, and is jealously guarded by the newspaper. Nothing published may be reprinted in whole or part without getting written consent from the Publisher, at his law office, at Norm@NormKent.com. SFGN, as a private corporation, reserves the right to enforce its own standards regarding the suitability of advertising copy, illustrations and photographs. MEMBER

An example of work at Ink Addiction II. Photo courtesy of Ink Addiction II.

An intricate design with lots of colors. their personal victories over mental health A simple symbol. A name that only means issues. “Many of my clients get something to the bearer. Every tattoos at a meaningful point piece of body art has a story in their lives, whether good behind it. For one day at Ink or bad. I’m fortunate to play Addiction II in Wilton Manors, a small part in that process,” the works of art will come with Valentin said. “I have a few an extra meaning. younger clients that have On Sunday, Feb. 21, they’re gotten the semi-colon because donating 10% of all proceeds of their own personal fight from tattoos and body with suicide! As well as some piercings to benefit mental interesting cover-up tattoos health and suicide prevention. hiding scars from some of my The shop is working with clients that were cutters!” Breaking-taboo.org, which Breaking Taboo says one-infocuses on breaking the four people have some form silence around mental health of mental health concern, problems. Manager Miguel - Miguel Valentin with many struggling with Valentin says the goal is “to Manager at Ink Addiction II depression. The group wants break the taboo with tattoos.” people to learn how to talk Valentin has seen people get ink for many reasons, including to celebrate freely about their problems. The default for too

“If it wasn’t for the 12step program I wouldn’t be in this position, so what better way to give back and do some service?”

many people is to suffer in silence, ashamed or afraid to open up. Sunday’s goal to raise awareness as well as money is noble, but the date was chosen by Valentin for a very personal reason. “I agreed to volunteer for this project and picked the date because it’s my five-year anniversary of sobriety,” Valentin said. “If it wasn’t for the 12-step program I wouldn’t be in this position, so what better way to give back and do some service?” Valentin says this is their first fundraiser and doesn’t know what to expect, but hopes to raise at least $500. “As a person in recovery, I thought what a great marriage of ideas it would be to team up with BreakingTaboo.org and to Break the Taboo with Tattoos,” Valentin said. “My hope is that at least one person will receive this message and know that it’s OK to talk about mental health and suicide prevention.”

www.WMGAZETTE.com 20

• 2 .18.2021

2 •

FEBRUARY 18, 2021

MEMBER

Associated Press MEMBER

MEMBER

A pelican on the water. Photo via PxHere.

Seniors Eligible For COVID Vaccine in Wilton Manors Staff Report A limited number of COVID-19 vaccines are being administered by the City of Wilton Manors. Vaccinations are available to seniors ages 65 and older. To schedule a vaccination, call 954390-2101. The phone line opens at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 18. Since the start of the pandemic 834 Wilton Manors residents have tested positive for the virus, said City Manager Leigh Ann Henderson. In Broward County, 189,612 people have been vaccinated for COVID-19.

NEWS

WILTON MANORS

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CONVICTIONS

Off The Wall

BLACK LGBT ICONS Pier Angelo

Alvin Ailey (1931 –1989) was an African-American choreographer and activist who founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York City. He is credited with popularizing modern dance and revolutionizing African-American participation in 20th-century concert dance. His company gained the nickname “Cultural Ambassador to the World” because of its extensive international touring. In 1977, Ailey was awarded the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP. He received the Kennedy Center Honors in 1988, just one year before his death. In 2014, former President Barack Obama selected Ailey to be a posthumous recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. William “Billy” Preston (1946 –2006) was an American musician whose work included R&B, rock, soul, funk and gospel. A virtuoso keyboardist, Preston was recognized as a top session musician in the 1960s, during which he backed artists such as Little Richard, Sam Cooke, Ray Charles and the Beatles. In addition, Preston co-wrote “You Are So Beautiful,” which became a number 5 hit for Joe Cocker. Preston continued to record and perform with other artists, notably George Harrison after the Beatles’ break-up, and Eric Clapton, and he played keyboards for the Rolling Stones on many of the group’s albums and tours during the 1970s. Alongside Tony Sheridan, Preston was the only other musician to be credited on a Beatles recording: the artists on the number-one hit “Get Back” are given as “The Beatles with Billy Preston.” Since Sheridan was labeled alongside “The Beat Brothers,” Preston is, strictly speaking, the only artist to be labeled explicitly with “The Beatles.” Preston was openly gay but did not speak publicly about his sexuality. Little Richard (1932-2020), was an American recording artist, songwriter, and musician. He has been an influential figure in popular music and culture for more than six decades. His most celebrated work dates from the mid-1950s where his dynamic music and charismatic showmanship laid the foundation for rock and roll. His music also had a pivotal impact on the formation of other popular music genres, including soul and funk. He influenced numerous singers and musicians across musical genres from rock to rap. In 1984, while he noted that he felt homosexuality was “unnatural” and “contagious,” he would tell Charles White that he was “omnisexual” after he was asked about his sex life. In 1995, he told Penthouse that he always knew he was gay. In 2007, Mojo magazine described him as a “bisexual alien.” Felicia Pearson (May 18, 1980) is an American actress, author, and rapper. She is best known for playing a character of the same name, on “The Wire.” She wrote a memoir titled “Grace After Midnight” detailing her troubled childhood and time spent in prison for second-degree murder. “The Wire” aired on HBO between 2002 and 2008, the Baltimore-based actress was plucked out of a club for a role she fit perfectly — a butch lesbian criminal with a strong accent and a hard look.

• 2 .18.2021

Photo via MaxPixel.

Billie Holiday (1915 –1959) It is widely known that the Jazz singer had affairs with women.

Bessie Smith (1894 –1937) This blues singer was also known to have had love affairs with women.

RuPaul (November 17, 1960), This legendary drag performer became famous in the 1990s as an actress and singer.

Sheryl Swoopes (March 25, 1971) was the first woman to be signed in the WNBA when it was created. She has won three Olympic Gold medals and is a three-time WNBA MVP. In October 2005, with her announcement that she was gay, Swoopes became one of the highest profile athletes in a team sport to do so publicly. Her partner is former basketball player and Houston Comets assistant coach, Alisa Scott.

Pier Angelo was born in Italy, moved to England at the age of 17 and learned English at the Nelson School of English. He attended college and graduate school in Manhattan. In 2009 he founded SFGN with Norm Kent. Now he’s retired with his husband Tom and his Affenpinscher Cabbage. He still enjoys writing his column Off The Wall for SFGN.

OTLIGHT BUSINESS SPO

INDELIBLE ART + TATTOO

CONVICTIONS

Editorial Cartoon

EDITORIAL CARTOON By Andy Marlette

Welcome to Business Spotlight, the column that thanks advertisers who support SFGN. We invite you to support them, because without their outreach to us, we would not be here to reach out to you. We are a free newspaper that survives on the success of our advertisers so we encourage our readers to support those who support us.

2416 Wilton Dr. Wilton Manors 954-383-8933

IndelibleartAndTattoo.com

ndelible Art + Tattoo was opened this past September by Antonio Di Loreto and Richard Meyerson. We offer a premier tattoo and piercing studio on the drive (across from Rosies). Antonio, originally from the east coast of Italy, is an international tattoo artist with over 20 years experience. We offer a clean, safe, covid-aware space. Check out Antonio’s amazing portfolio on our website and call for your free consultation! In addition to the tattoo studio, we showcase local artists in our art gallery.

• We feature the extraordinary photography of local photographer Carlos Lopez as our permanent exhibit. His collection of natural Florida setting photographs is unparalleled. • We are thrilled to announce our newest exhibit by local artist Richard Ferrugio. Richard is an incredibly accomplished artist who has been painting original oils on canvas for over 40 years. His unique use of color, light, shadows, and attention to detail is breathtaking.

Pictured: Owners Antonio Di Loreto and Richard Meyerson.

Please join us for this month’s Wilton Manor Art Walk, Saturday Feb. 20 from 5-8 p.m. as we premiere the exhibit of Richard Ferrugio. We will have the parking lot closed to traffic so you can have the opportunity to meet the artists and see their work in a safe and social-distanced space. (Masks required of course.) 2 .18 . 20 21 •

FAITH & PRIDE SPIRITUALITY

THE SECRETS AND JOYS OF

PURIM Rabbi Noah Kitty

Congregation Etz Chaim

he Purim holiday is coming up this month. It’s a kind of Jewish Mardi Gras, celebrated by children and adults with costumes, games, and storytelling. Purim tells of an extraordinary moment for the Jewish community in ancient Persia, where one moment they are safe, then marked for annihilation, then redeemed to safety again. Purim is unique among the holidays in that it is simultaneously a serious drama and a farce. It begins when Haman the Persian counselor was insulted that Mordechai the Jew did not bow down to him, and furiously arranged to have the entire Jewish community destroyed. Meanwhile, back at the palace King Achashverosh needed a new consort, having dismissed Queen Vashti for her refusal to dance naked in front of the court. They held a year-long beauty contest, so that maidens from all over the empire could enter. Mordechai entered his niece Esther, who kept her faith secret. After much back-and-forth action, Esther becomes queen, comes out as a Jew and saves her people. Haman is the one who is destroyed. From here Purim diverges into two very different explanations. On the one hand we are told to celebrate the holiday so extravagantly that we can’t tell the difference between Good Mordechai and Evil Haman. We dress up in wild costumes, there’s a tradition to be free with the adult beverages, and retell the story as comically musical as we can manage. We’ve had Beatles Purim, Star Wars Purim, a West Side Story Purim — you get the picture. We take the story, mix in some current events, and have a wonderful time laughing at ourselves. As some have cheekily observed, they tried to kill us, they failed, let’s eat. Purim is further unique in that God is never mentioned — at all — in the story. You could easily read this as a secular political tale of intrigue, as familiar now as it was back in the 5th century BCE when Persia (Iran) was a world empire. Despite God’s obvious absence, Purim is held in the highest regard by a long tradition; in fact, it is said that when the world is perfected at the Messiah’s arrival, the only holiday we will celebrate is Purim. This is due to God’s very absence from the story; even though God is not visibly present we understand that it is God’s hidden presence,

Photo via Facebook.

behind the scenes as it were, that is still active and informing the courage and actions of Mordechai and Esther. I understand God’s absence from the story as a way to understand that Purim is less about Divine Presence than it is about individual faith. Neither Mordechai or Esther received any messages from God, or from an angel, or even a talking donkey. Their faith came from their belief that their lives were worth saving, worth fighting for, and they were going to take the risks and put in the effort. Nor did they anticipate Divine intervention; there are no splitting of seas or armies swallowed up by an earthquake. Just a girl and her uncle, working together in their dedication to save their people. Throughout the centuries there has been a tradition for individual communities to write their own Purim story of when they succeeded in their own escape from disaster, as a way of remembering what they did to save themselves and as way for their children to learn that it takes focus, attention, determination, and discipline to protect what others seek to harm, all of which is wrapped up in the faith that they believe their lives have value and are worth saving. We believe it is essential that our children believe this, whatever else they believe. I hope you believe it as well. And so I invite you to have your own Purim, a day that you mark as disaster averted. Celebrate it wildly, tell the story from as many vantage points as you can, and then invent some more. Do it with music, song and dance, food and friends. Share your stories of success, survival, and endurance. Let everyone know how seriously you take your life, and have fun doing it! Hag Purim Sameach — Happy Purim!

Congregation Etz Chaim’s Purim celebration will take place online on Thursday, February 25 at 7 p.m. 24

• 2 .18.2021

DUE TO COVID-19, CLERGY ASK THAT YOU STAY SAFE AT HOME. PLEASE WATCH SERVICES ON FACEBOOK AND/OR ONLINE. FIND DETAILS ON HOW TO WATCH ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGES AND WEBSITES. THANK YOU AND BE WELL!

Shabbat service Friday 8pm on our YouTube channel Congregation Etz Chaim

2038 N. Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, on the Pride Center campus www.EtzChaimFlorida.org / RSVP HERE: info@etzchaimflorida.org

Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 s. Federal Hwy., Boynton Beach, FL 561-733-4000 www,churchofoursaviormcc.org

SPIRITUALITY

SOUTHFLORIDAGAYNEWS.COM

LISTINGS

Until further notice: Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, our worship services are streamed on Facebook Live every Sunday at 10 AM, rather than held at our church property. https://www.facebook.com/ ChurchofOurSaviorMCC. Visit our web site for more details & updates.

Join us for masked, socially distanced in person worship. 11 AM Sundays. Services also LIVE-streamed on Facebook and posted on website for safe at home viewing.

“Love without judgement” Holy Angels National Catholic Church 1436 NE 26th Street Wilton Manors. 33305 Facebook.com/HolyAngelsFL www.HolyAngelsFL.org

954-633-2987

A home for your spirit. Mass Schedule: Sabado 6:00 PM misa en español • Sunday Mass at 11 AM in English • All are welcome!

A LITTLE BIT OF FAITH AND

PRIDE

SFGN is here for you, no matter who — or what — keeps you going. Read our Spirituality Section to stay in touch with your local religious LGBT community. The only requirement? Be yourself.

SEE MORE ONLINE AT SFGN.COM/TABLE/NEWS/RELIGION CONGREGATION ETZ CHAIM 2038 N. Dixie Hwy (Pride Center Building B), Wilton Manors 954-564-9232 - etzchaimflorida.org RabbiNoahKitty@etzchaimflorida.org Friday Night Shabbat Service 8p.m. HOLY ANGELS CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 2917 NE 6th Avenue Wilton Manors 954-633-2987 - HolyAngelsFL.net Sunday Mass at 11AM

CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOR, MCC Church of Our Savior, MCC 2011 S. Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach. churchofoursaviormcc.org | 561-733-4000 Sunday Service 10AM TEMPLE BAT YAM 5151 NE 14th Ter Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 954-928-0410 Friday Night & Saturday Morning Streaming Online at templebatyam.org

2 .18 . 20 21 •

COLUMN LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

I VOTED FOR TRUMP

I am not a Racist, a White Supremacist, a Neo-Nazi, or Follower of QAnon Photo via Adobe.

Mr. Kent, I read your op-ed (“The Republican Party Supports man, and friend to many gay men and women, I could a Racist Cult,” Jan. 28) and found it disturbing never find myself supporting anyone that showed an that anyone would, not only “think” this way, but ill-will toward the gay community. This is yet another actually publish such off-putting, insulting, and false reason why I don’t support today’s Democrats; they statements. use the LGBT community as they do the Black and As a conservative, I hold certain values that are Latino community — as pawns to be used to divide not generally embraced by crony-capitalists, career and conquer. They urge us to feel like victims, which politicians and corporate elitists. I don’t want is never uplifting nor beneficial to us in any way. government to support me, but to leave me alone to I was never 100% pleased about everything Trump create my best life. I will generally vote for the party did, but the good certainly outweighed the bad. that promotes limited government, not an everWhile I have nothing positive to say about the growing behemoth. current administration, I see clearly my I voted Republican, yet I am not responsibility concerning what I put out AS THE SISTER TO A a racist, a white supremacist, a neointo the world. Do I want to use my words GAY MAN, SISTERNazi nor do I follow Qanon. I voted to unite or to divide? And, importantly, IN-LAW TO A GAY for Donald Trump precisely because I toward what ultimate outcome? viewed the alternative as a continuation My family escaped Cuba when the MAN, AND FRIEND of the immoral and unethical corruption communist regime took over. Many TO MANY GAY MEN we cannot seem to get rid of. I am Cubans stayed and believed the AND WOMEN, I grateful for all the good he accomplished promises, while many fled to the refuge COULD NEVER FIND — tangible, real, policies that he of this great country. The tactics that MYSELF SUPPORTING implemented that benefited our nation. were used in Cuba are being used here. ANYONE THAT As for his support of the LGBT The fascists are those that are censoring SHOWED AN ILL-WILL community, not only did he appoint and canceling fellow Americans that just the first openly gay cabinet member, happen to be of the party you oppose. If TOWARD THE GAY Rick Grenell, but he (1) donated to you forget the labels and consider the COMMUNITY. charities focused on the AIDS crisis actions, you will find your way back onto during the 1980s (2) supported the the right path. amendment to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to include I hope you will truly consider what you are using banning discrimination based on sexual orientation; your platform for, who will listen and be impacted, (3) he was outspoken about supporting domestic- and what this will do to them and to us all. partnership law that guarantees gay people the same Please use your artful command of the language to legal protections and rights as married people; (4) has promote good, not to spread hate, false narratives and been the only president in history to assume office in further division. support of gay marriage; (6) was the first private club owner in Palm Beach to admit an openly gay couple; (7) publicly supported allowing gay people to serve Sincerely, openly in the military; (8) launched a global effort to Rose Puerto end the criminalization of homosexuality. Pompano Beach, FL As the sister to a gay man, sister-in-law to a gay

THE ENEMY IS WITHIN Is the pro-pandemic, genocidal GOP still the party of the defeated, deranged racist traitor Donald Trump? Or is the Republican Party now following the fanatical footsteps of that other infamous homicidal American politician Dan White, the crazy ex-cop who murdered San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk? Actually, FOX News’ favorite fresh fascist face Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Georgia) appears to conveniently be the political combination of Donald Trump and Dan White — a pathologically dishonest, crackpot QAnon conspiracy theorist whose hatred is clearly putting her on the path of political assassination and domestic terrorism. Marjorie is a violent psycho! But the tangerine tyrant Trump says Greene is “a future Republican Star.” Here’s a suggestion for you neo-Nazi Republicans: next time you attempt a domestic terrorist takeover, hijacking the federal government with hateful hillbillies is probably not the most effective approach. No “Twinkie defense” for Trump. Sincerely,

Jake Pickering Arcata, CA, USA

LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!  Submit your own letter to Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com 26

• 2 .18.2021

Photo via Adobe.

COLUMN LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

A BRIGHT FUTURE LIES AHEAD The astute can predict the future — with more than a modicum of confidence — by examining history. Nate Silver did this last year at fivethirtyeight.com, as did Vegas oddsmakers, in predicting the victory of President Joe Biden over Donald J. Trump. We can foresee celebrations coming soon for LGBT Americans. Rallies will welcome the passage of an Equality Act protecting against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity not only in employment but also in housing, education, finance and public accommodations (hotels, bars, etc.). President Biden’s administration has made this a priority for his first 100 days per White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki (Washington Blade, 02/05/2021). More importantly, Democrats have taken control of both houses of Congress. Democrats last controlled the White President Joe Biden’s official White House portrait. House and both legislative houses in the 111th Credit: David Lienemann, The White House Congress (2009 – 2011). LGBT rights then took three leaps forward. Congress repealed statutory support for the military’s anti-gay candidate — have such local laws. When Virginia Democrats took control discrimination (2010) and passed an inclusive federal hate crime law (2009). The Senate of Old Dominion’s legislature, less than confirmed appointments to the U.S. Supreme six months later made their state the first Court of Sonia Sotomayor (2009), this in the South to enact a pro-LGBTQ antination’s first Hispanic and Latina justice, and discrimination law according to NBC News Elena Kagan (2010). Sotomayor and Kagan (“Virginia Democrats take control of state legislature for first time in over joined three other justices to two decades,” 11/05/2019; and declare the Defense of Marriage “Virginia governor signs LGBT DEMOCRATS LAST Act unconstitutional (2013 and nondiscrimination into law,” 2015). CONTROLLED THE 4/13/2020). In 2019 every Democrat WHITE HOUSE This will nicely supplement — but only eight Republicans SCOTUS’ ruling on June 15, AND BOTH — in the U.S. House of 2020 suitably during Pride Representatives voted to pass LEGISLATIVE month in Bostock v. Clayton the Equality Act. HOUSES IN THE County, Georgia. By a 6-3 margin Today Democrats control the liberal Roberts court — 111TH CONGRESS both houses in 18 states’ including Trump appointee legislatures, and all 18 have (2009 – 2011). Neil Gorsuch, author of the pertinent nondiscrimination LGBT RIGHTS majority opinion — held that laws. Minnesota (1993) and Iowa THEN TOOK THREE the 1964 Civil Rights Act’s Title (2007) enacted such laws when VII protects against anti-LGBT Democrats controlled their LEAPS FORWARD. discrimination in employment. legislatures. SCOTUS reasoned, “Just as Equality Florida reports that sex is necessarily a but-for cause when an 12 counties including Broward and MiamiDade and 30 cities including Wilton Manors employer discriminates against homosexual have enacted anti-discrimination ordinances, or transgender employees, an employer who but only one Southern state has enacted an discriminates on these grounds inescapably intends to rely on sex in its decision making.” anti-discrimination law. With Democrats in control, our day in the Incidentally, in 18 Florida counties last November more than 42 percent of voters sun as LGBTQ Americans is inevitable. supported Biden, and 12 of those counties have anti-discrimination protection. None of J. Eric Peters the other 49 counties — where fewer than 42 percent of voters supported the Democratic Columbus, Ohio

Full Charge Bookkeeping Services

LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!  Submit your own letter to Jason.Parsley@sfgn.com 2 .18 . 20 21 •

LIFESTYLE SHOP WITH PRIDE

PIN-ACE

Darcy Alemany. Courtesy of Darcy Alemany.

A Pin for Every Sexuality and Gender Kendall Little

f you’re looking for a subtle way to show your pride, Pin-Ace has you covered. The shop is owned by Darcy Alemany, who identifies as an intersex male. The store specializes in high-quality enamel pins, which are small decorative pins worn on clothing or bags Alemany created his small business when he realized that there weren’t a lot of preexisting options for pride pins. “There were a bunch of pins that I wanted but couldn’t find,” he said. “So I was like, ‘I can make these’ and ended up doing a little bit of research to figure out the process.” Then, Pin-Ace was born. Alemany’s first collection contains 25 designs ranging from simple pride flag designs to more detailed LGBT designs and even non-pride related pins. His favorite product is a rainbow heartshaped pin with two penguins holding flippers. Though the pin’s cuteness factors into his reasoning, the meaning is a lot deeper than it seems. “Personally, one of the ways that I really felt I could learn to accept myself more is understanding that same-sex attraction isn’t exclusive to humans,” Alemany said. “I want to celebrate those other animals that have sort of a similar life that makes my life a little bit more real.” Alemany’s Pride Animal Collection includes otters, puppies, and penguins, but he plans on expanding the collection in his next product drop. Pin-Ace also offers a Harry Potter-inspired

collection for LGBT fans that love the series, but don’t want to support J.K. Rowling after her anti-transgender tweets. “Harry Potter is something that I grew up with and I feel like it’s also grown up with me,” Alemany said. “These pins are sort of edgier grown-up versions of the house mascots and I like it because it’s a way of celebrating that story … without necessarily supporting the person who wrote it.” Alemany plans on expanding his products with a new pin type called the Yin-Yang Collection. “A lot of times, people express different sexualities on different days … or they feel like their identity is a combination of multiple sexualities or multiple genders,” he said. This collection allows people to mix and match different halves of a yin-yang symbol to create their own identity to show off. For example, someone could purchase a transgender yin-yang half and a bisexual yinyang half and combine them to portray their identity. Alemany says that he created his shop to allow LGBT people to represent themselves safely, but proudly. “These pins are bright and colorful, but non-invasive. You don’t have to stand up and say ‘I am something you don’t like.’ You can just wear your pin and be represented,” he said. “I hope to help create a world where people can figure out their identity and share that with others and not feel like they’re putting themselves at risk for doing so.”

You can support this LGBT-owned small business by visiting Alemany’s Etsy shop or following him on Instagram.

• 2 .18.2021

PRESS RELEASE

ALIBI / MONKEY BAR ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH

AXELBEACH, MIAMI BEACH Wilton Manors first gay bar will operate all food and beverage operations within the hotel along with exciting community events and premier parties

Miami Beach, Florida February 12, 2021— Alibi! Monkey Bar announces their partnership with ÆxelBeach Hotel to operate all Food and Beverage operations within the hotel beginning in March 2021. Alibi/ Monkey Bar was the founding establishment in South Florida’s popular LGBTQ community of Wilton Manors in Broward County, Florida . The Alibi/ Monkey Bar has operated in Wilton Manor’s for 24 years. Alibi also has sister outlet, The Monkey Bar in Provincetown, Massachusetts which has been in continuous operation for 28 years. Both represent a long term dedication to the gay community. Alibi/ Monkey bar has been a staple of Whlton Manors social scene since opening and has hosted countless community events and philanthropic fund raisers plus direct donations to benefit and support the LGBTQ community. The Monkey Bar in Provincetown has offered gay travelers quality food and drinks for decades. The Axel Hotel ‘s brand invited the Alibi/ Monkey Barto copartner with them at their Miami Beach location. Both will surely create an exceptional experience that will bring guests back again and again. Axel Hotel’s opened in Barcelona, Spain over 15 years ago and in 2019 opened its first U.S. LGBTQ hotel the AxelBeach at 1500 Collins Ave in South Beach. Axel Hotels has outlets in several European destination cities including Barcelona, Berlin. Madrid Ibiza and Maspalomas with additional LGBTQ hotels coming to locations in SpairV Portugal and Cuba. AxelBeach is nestled

directly in the center of the Art Deco district and is a short walk to sizzling Miami Beach and neighboring LGBTQ businesses and attracti ons. AxelBeach has 160 rooms, a large sparkling pool, on site restaurant and lobby bar plus the beautiful SkyBarfor larger hotel events. AxelBeach was only open a short time before the pandemic put all of our travel plans on hold in 2020. Beginning new again in 2021 the hotel is fully open and ready for guests to fill its rooms and experience Miami Beach and local attractions throughout all of South Florida. Alibi/ Monkey Bar will begin operating and staffingall food and beverage outlets in the AxelBeach Hotel in March 2021. This will be integrated into the arrival experience and throughout each guests stay at the hotel. Alibi/ Monkey Bar will develop and provide entertainment focused on the LGBTQ traveler and support local community events. The Alibi/ Monkey Bar is well known for its support of the LGBT Community hiring countless live singers, Drag acts, Dancers and LGBTQ favorite DJ’s. Going forward we will refer to our partnership endeavor with Axel Hotels brand as “Alibi at AxelBeach”. We both hope to be able to meet and greet new and old friends again as we begin to return to our lives as sophisticated travelers and tourists both from U.S. and abroad. On behalf of AxelBeach Hotel Miami Beach and Alibi at AxelBeach welcome to Miami ... get ready for an experience of a lifetime!

For more information on employment, bookings, events, or just to say hi, direct all inquiries to: AlibiAxelBeach@Gmail.com 2 .18 . 20 21 •

LIFESTYLE FOOD

THE HISTORY OF BRUNCH Check these restaurants out for a damn good meal

Rick Karlin

n these divisive times, there’s something upon which the LGBT community can agree; we all love brunch. Given its popularity, you might think that our community invented it. However, the origins of brunch go back farther than that. In 1895, the term was used by English writer Guy Beringer describing a Sunday meal for “Saturday-night carousers.” Beringer also wrote: “It is talk-compelling. It puts you in a good temper, it makes you satisfied with yourself and your fellow beings, it sweeps away the worries and cobwebs of the week.” The first American city known for brunches was Chicago. Back in the days before transcontinental flights, movie stars who had business on both coasts would stopover in Chicago on their multi-night treks across the country by rail. The train used to stop late mornings on Sunday and famous actors would head to the famed Pump Room at the Ambassador Hotel in search of a meal between breakfast and lunch service. The restaurant created a special menu for those Sunday morning stopovers. It doesn’t matter who or where brunch. What’s important is that it exists at all, allowing us to sleep late, feast, and then head to tea dance or (for those of us of a certain age) back home for a nap. If you like eggs Benedict, then J. MARKS should be your go-to brunch spot with a half-dozen versions of the menu favorite. In addition to its version of the classic (served on ciabatta), there is also a veggie version (served on a bed of sauteed spinach), one which subs thick-cut applewood smoked bacon for the traditional Canadian bacon (which is called pea-meal or back bacon in Canada), a spicy version showcasing prosciutto, smoked mozzarella, and a fiery sauce, yet another atop crab cakes, even one towering over a double cheeseburger. For those seeking something more down-

home, there is a croissant breakfast sandwich with two fried eggs topped with Canadian bacon and Velveeta cheese or steak tip and eggs. Those who are health conscious can enjoy an egg white omelet. For something exotic check out the breakfast eggroll; stuffed with scrambled eggs, applewood smoked bacon, and Velveeta cheese. Bloody Marys are only $3, but oddly enough, the same sized virgin Mary is $5. In addition to socially distanced dining indoor dining, the Fort Lauderdale location features a large outdoor patio, while the Pompano space has a limited number of outdoor tables. 1245 N. Federal Hwy in Fort Lauderdale, 954-390-0770 and 1490 NE 23rd St. in Pompano Beach, FL 954-782-7000, jmarksrestaurant.com. Palm Beach Gardens’ STAGE KITCHEN & BAR commemorated its first anniversary by launching Sunday brunch, served from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Brunch menu highlights include chicken and waffles, an English breakfast plate, eggs Benedict with crab, and avocado, and steak, egg, and frites. Other standout dishes include Bang Bang cauliflower and shrimp and grouper fried rice with kimchi. Kimchi also makes an appearance in the restaurant’s signature Bloody Mary. Other cocktail options include iced mimosa and bellini, and a combo of sake and ginger beer. Brunch is served both indoors (which is equipped with an air purification system) and on the outdoor patio. 2000 PGA Blvd., 561408-3685, stagepga.com.

MILK MONEY IS KNOWN FOR ITS TRENDY DISHES, BUT THEY DO A GOOD JOB WITH THE CLASSICS AS WELL.

• 2 .18.2021

Eggs Benedict at Reunion Ktchn Bar. Photo courtesy of Reunion Ktchn Bar.

MILK MONEY is known for its trendy dishes, but they do a good job with the classics as well. You can’t get trendier than avocado toast with glazed maple bacon and eggs unless of course, you go for the egg whites over a bed of sautéed spinach topped with spicy aioli, fresh cucumber, and tomato. Upgrades, add-ons, and substitutes include vegan bacon, vegan cheese (why the vegan options if it has eggs?), avocado, and pickled cabbage with daikon. However, there are also dishes for those seeking classic breakfast fare; eggs with a choice of sausage patties, ham, bacon, or turkey sausage links, served with hash brown patties or hand-cut breakfast potatoes with onions, scrambled eggs with caramelized onions, and pepper jack cheese and waffles topped with house-made chocolate and caramel sauces, white and milk chocolate chips, and bananas. There are also a sunny side lox and bagel, steak and eggs, and an avocado on a bed of greens served with

HUNGRY FOR MORE? 

tomato and feta and stuffed with your choice of chicken cranberry pecan salad, almond raisin tuna salad, or chickpea salad. Though not large, Milk Money offers ample outdoor seating. 815 NE 13th St., Fort Lauderdale, 954990-4018, milkmoneybar.com. REUNION KTCHN BAR recently began offering brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. The shared plate menu is internationally inspired with an emphasis on Spain, Asia, and the Mediterranean. For those who like a touch of sweetness in the morning, there are gluten-free almond pancakes, served with bourbon maple syrup or chocolate chips, honey saganaki cheese topped with a pistachio crumble, and the s’mores croissant. Savory options include smoked salmon Benedict, avocado toast on a baguette, grilled raclette cheese on a croissant, and escargot. Brunch can be elevated with caviar service or caviar flights. Indoor and patio dining are available. 18167 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura, 305931-7401, reunionkb.com.

VISIT SFGN.COM/FOOD!

Rick Karlin is SFGN’s food editor. Visit SFGN.com/Food to read his previous reviews. Have a culinary tip to share? Email Rick at RickKarlinFL@gmail.com.

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WIG OUT

An Inside Look at This Season of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ John Hayden

ttitude. Outfits. And Hair. Big, showstopping hair! “RuPaul’s Drag Race” is back with 13 queens for Season 13, and the only things more fierce than the contestants are the challenges blindsiding them from the moment they strut on set. When RuPaul announced they would have to sing for their lives in the very first episode, they knew they had to make every performance count. One sequin out of place, one eyelash that comes unglued, and they could be sashaying away before they even get started. Miss Carmen Adore, one of South Florida’s most high-profile Queens, put her super skills to work for some of the girls. She does wonders with wigs and takes every strand seriously. “I believe the wig and style should be cohesive with the Queen’s look,” she said. “Normally the queens will come to me with a look in mind and show me examples of what they like and we create something together.” And since a wig tops off an outfit (literally), Carmen makes sure it will hold up through even the most acrobatic performances. “Some styles require the Queen to secure it to their heads so it won’t fall off or fall apart mid-performance so I try my best to make sure everything has a good base and can endure the wear and tear. It is also common for queens to see celebrity styles and want to duplicate that so a lot of times wigs would have to be customized in a way to make it undeniably noticeable to the character.” This season our behind-the-scenes queen worked with contestants including Olivia Lux, a self-described lover of big hair. And while RuPaul may love spilling tea at every turn, that’s not the case when it comes to the show. Secrecy rules, so Carmen worked her magic with only a few clues to guide her. “I would just see a drawing of what their idea would be and create something from that so the only thing I get to see is sketches from the stylist and fabric patterns and colors.” Carmen also knows that performing in a club is very different from working an outfit for Hi-Def TV cameras. So Drag Race contestants get extra attention to quality and detail. “I only use wigs that have a good lace. There

February 19 - March 7 2021 713 Lake Avenue, Lake Worth Beach, FL www.lakeworthplayhouse.org | 561.586.6410 RuPaul. Credit: RuPaul’s Drag Race.

is a technique called ventilating where you can either add or remove individual hairs throughout the hairline to make it look more natural but I definitely don’t buy anything from a beauty store for the public. It’s just not the tea for me.” Miss Adore has been a fan of the Emmywinning show for years, and got the attention of producers and fans when she got a chance to attend the season eight finalé. “I got to sit near the front area behind the past season queens. The cameraman in that area constantly had his camera on me and the queens I was with. So when it comes time to edit and have some reactions you can see that I come up about three to four times.” Later she found herself living out every Queen’s dream. “I didn’t start doing wigs for the contestants until ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars’ Season 4, and my very first queen was the infamous Jasmine Masters.” And while Carmen can’t reveal any secrets, she does tell us what she loves creating. “I always enjoy creating a unique style that isn’t worn often, and death-defying styles like an oversized bow bigger than a 72-in plasma TV. I also like creating unique colors in the wig which make it one of a kind and that’s always been my goal when I started styling.” Sounds like one day soon she’ll be “werking” the Drag Race stage for herself. Until then, you can find her performing at South Florida’s hot clubs and online. And if you want to see some of her work, check out her Instagram at hatzbycarlos.

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ne of the South Florida LGBT arts presenters that’s been most effective in the pivot to pandemic-era safety protocols is the OUTshine Film Festival. The Miami and Fort Lauderdale festivals were held virtually with on-demand streaming of the latest LGBT-themed features, shorts and documentaries from around the world. With a year-round program in the works, OUTshine is kicking off a special free series in February to observe Black History Month. Historically, films about LGBT people of color and lesbians have been underrepresented in the festival circuit, said Executive Director Victor Gimenez. “It’s important to tell LGBT stories, but it’s just as important to share the stories of this important cross-section of our community,” he explained. Beginning Feb. 19, viewers will be able to screen these five free films from their homes or mobile devices: “WALKING WITH SHADOWS” FEB. 19 – 28 NIGERIA/2019/ENGLISH/95 MINS. A Nigerian man must come to terms with his dark secret and choose between keeping his family or accepting a life of possible loneliness and rejection. “I AM SAMUEL” FEB. 19 – 28 KENYA/2020/ENGLISH, SWAHILI WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES/68 MINS. A gay Kenyan man finds himself torn between balancing duty to his family and his dreams for a future where he can live his truth openly. “UNAPOLOGETIC” FEB. 26 – MARCH 7 USA/2020/ENGLISH/86 MINS. Seen through the eyes of two Black, queer women organizers, the film offers a lyrical and timely portrait of the Black Lives Matter movement in Chicago.

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“KAPANA” FEB. 26 – MARCH 7 NAMIBIA/2020/ENGLISH/61 MINS. DOUBLE FEATURE WITH “BOYS HURT TOO.” When the two men meet, a love-story is set in motion, but how do they navigate their diverse backgrounds and the society that simply will not accept their love?

“Unapologetic,” a feature about two queer Black Lives Matter activists, is one of five films OUTshine Film Festival is streaming for free during Black History Month. Credit: Frameline.

“BOYS HURT TOO” FEB. 26 – MARCH 7 USA/2021/ENGLISH/50 MINS. DOUBLE FEATURE WITH “KAPANA” After the death of his best friend, Colt mourns, but when a rumor about his deceased friend begins to spread around town, Colt finds himself defending his friend’s reputation. Gimenez added that the Miami edition of OUTshine is planned for April 22 – May 5 with a similar format to the last two festivals, largely with virtual screenings. He hinted that popular outdoor events including a drive-in movie were being planned until the festival can return to theaters. “Safety is still our main concern and practicality is the other,” he pointed out, noting the OUTshine board and volunteers are excited about the outreach opportunities created by the ongoing streaming options being kicked off this month.

For more information, go to OUTshineFilm.com.

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